Bybrook Barn Garden Centre is being sold to Longacres, with owner Terry Burch shaking hands on the deal after 41 years at the helm of the Kent business.
Bybrook began life in 1975 when Mr Burch first set up the garden centre, and since then it has expanded, moved premises and evolved into a thriving business. Now in his 80s, Mr Burch has decided to retire and hand the business on.

Longacres boss Nigel Long agreed the takeover last week and has revealed plans to transform Bybrook Barn into the "best garden centre in Kent." His vision for the business includes a refrigerated cut flower shop, a family restaurant and a click and collect online service.

The new owner has also pledged to keep on the 27 staff members employed at the garden centre, with the possibility of new jobs opening up with the expansion plans.

As reported by Kent Online, Mr Burch said: "Bybrook Barn has been my life's work and selling the business has been a hard decision, but I am delighted to be passing it on to another family business.

"The Long family have made an amazing success of Longacres and I hope that, with their energy and foresight, they will take Bybrook Barn forward to new levels."

Mr Long said: "We are very excited to have bought Bybrook Barn and look forward to continuing Terry's good work.

"In retail terms we are now looking ahead to Christmas and have exciting plans to bring festive magic to Ashford later this year."